Inspired by Sharjah Biennnial 10 artworks produced by Imran Qureshi, Atfal Ahdath, Bahman Mohassess and Marie Hélène Cauvin, artist Maya Ahmad designed a workshop that asked students from Al Amal School for the Deaf to explore the theme “Who Am I?

The five-day workshop included a student visit to the Biennial and several days of art making at the school. The students saw works that expanded their understanding of art and inspired them to creatively explore new media and other art making possibilities.

After their visit to the Biennial, during which they interacted with the works in playful and creative ways, they discussed the issue of stereotypes. In an attempt to combat misconceptions about deaf people, the students created self-portrait collages. The works explore issues such as future dreams, material wealth, discrepancies between those with and without power, and one’s place in society.

During the 2011 Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services annual event, the students had the opportunity to share their work with the community. They were delighted when SCHS Director General Sheikha Jameela bint Mohammed Al Qasimi took the time to speak to each student about the work. They proudly posed for pictures with Al Amal School for the Deaf director Afaf Al-Huraidi, the school’s art teacher Mohammad Abu Zahra, Nesma Ahmed, and members from the Sharjah Art Foundation.